Andreas Karlstadt was important to the Reformation since he reminds us that the Reformation was not all about the big players, but that lesser figures were also important in contributing to the emerging Protestant movement. His split with Luther also reminds us that the Reformation did not remain one single movement, but that it split into multiple Reformations with many actors each developing their own belief systems. 

However, Karlstadt later diverged from Luther, advocating for more extensive reforms in theology and church practices. He administered Holy Communion to the laity without vestments and with an abridged service on Christmas Day 1521. His iconoclastic views led to conflict, and he was called to account for his role in the prevailing unrest. Despite disagreements with Luther, Karlstadt's push for rapid reform influenced many who felt the Reformation was progressing too slowly.

He defended Luther during the indulgence controversy and advocated for clerical celibacy, private masses, and Holy Communion with both bread and wine. On Christmas Day 1521, he administered Holy Communion to the laity without vestments and with an abridged service. Later in life, Karlstadt broke with Luther over the pace of reform and interpretations of the Eucharist.